Pet-Friendly

Florida State Park Pet Policy

Domestic pets are permitted in designated day-use areas at ALL Florida State Parks. They must be kept on a handheld leash that is six feet or shorter and be well-behaved at all times. Pet owners are required to pick up after their pets and properly dispose of their droppings. Pets are not permitted on beaches or playgrounds, or in bathing areas, cabins, park buildings or concession facilities. Individual parks may have specific areas prohibiting pets.

There are many pet-friendly places on the Byway – these are some of the highlights.

Barkley Square Dog Park

Barkley Square Dog Park encompasses more than 14 acres and provides areas for large dogs, small dogs, training events, and time-out spaces. The dog park is situated on a parcel of land with many trees and even a small, lined pond in the large dog area.

Parking is plentiful and amenities include a modern restroom, benches, dog watering stations, and attractive vinyl-coated fencing. The Barkley Square Dog Park is one of three dog parks owned and operated by Volusia County Government. The park opened in spring 2007 with a howling celebration.

Blue Spring State Park

Domestic pets are permitted in designated day-use areas at ALL Florida State Parks. They must be kept on a handheld leash that is six feet or shorter and be well-behaved at all times. Pet owners are required to pick up after their pets and properly dispose of their droppings. Pets are not permitted on beaches or playgrounds, or in bathing areas, cabins, park buildings or concession facilities. Individual parks may have specific areas prohibiting pets.

De Leon Springs State Park

De Leon Springs offers a half-mile paved nature trail that is wheelchair accessible. This trail passes through a flood plain hammock with many hardwoods, pines and other plants native to this area, including a cypress tree that is more than 500 years old. A portion of the Florida National Scenic Trail runs through the park. Various wildlife may be seen from the trail. Also available is the Wild Persimmon Hiking Trail, a 4 mile loop trail that will lead you through several natural communities. Parts of the trail can flood during wet seasons and biting insects are common, so appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended, along with insect repellent and drinking water. Hikers must register at the Ranger Station.

Hontoon Island State Park

Pets are allowed in the park. They must be kept on a six-foot, hand held leash and well behaved at all times. Pets may not be left unattended at any time. Pets are permitted on the trail and park service roads. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property. Failure to abide by these rules may result in the visitor being asked to leave.

Gemini Springs Dog Park

The Gemini Springs Dog Park, 37 Dirksen Drive, DeBary, is a 4.5-acre fenced area of Gemini Springs Park with two sections – one for small dogs 25 pounds and under and another for large dogs over 25 pounds. The park includes shaded areas, dog wash stations, water fountains for dogs, benches and picnic tables.